NBA Draft’s Potential Celtics: Russian SF Sergey Karasev

Posted By
Tim Healey
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June 26, 2013 @ 7:26 pm
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As part of WEEI.com’s coverage of the 2013 NBA draft, here is one in a series of profiles of players who could be available to the Celtics[1] when they make their lone selection at No. 16.

SERGEY KARASEV

Position: Shooting forward

Team: Lyubertsy Triumph (Eurocup league)

Age: 19

Height: 6-foot-7

Weight: 197 pounds

Achievements: Olympic bronze medalist with Russia (2012)

Key 2012-13 stats: 16.1 points, 3 rebounds, 2.4 assists

What he brings: Karasev is considered well ahead of the learning curve in terms of being an international prospect, having led his team in scoring most nights in 2012-13 while playing in one of the top European leagues. The offensive numbers won’t directly translate, but his 41 percent success rate from the floor, 49 percent on 3-pointers and 82.6 percent on free throws isn’t a bad start.

Analysts also indicate Karasev has solid court vision and is unselfish. His defense is a bigger question mark, more so due to his slight frame than his effort. If he can get stronger, almost a universal requirement in Karasev scouting reports, and fill out a bit he will be fine at that end.

Notes: While the culture change/shock is always an issue to varying degrees for international prospects, Karasev definitely wants to play in the NBA, so a holdout is seen as unlikely. ‘¦ He greatly improved his draft stock with an impressive showing at the Nike Hoop Summit in April, which he attended shortly after declaring for the draft earlier that month. ‘¦ His father, Vasily Karasev, is the coach of his professional team in Russia, the Lyubertsy Triumph. ‘¦ Karasev is a native of St. Petersburg, Russia.